The Seattle Seahawks are just getting started. This team is young, hungry, well-coached, and will have the sixth-most cap space available in the league this offseason. Per Over The Cap, they will have just over $58 million to spend.
While that should be more than enough to address the areas of need, bring reinforcements, and keep their own free agents -- such as Kenneth Walker III -- in town, general manager John Schneider could have even more wiggle room to operate with more money.
That's why, after four years, it's become painfully evident that it's likely time to part ways with veteran edge defender Uchenna Nwosu. Notably, it's mostly about the money he is owed.
The Seattle Seahawks might need to cut ties with Uchenna Nwosu
A couple of years ago, Nwosu was much more than a hard-hitting headhunter. He was also an emotional catalyst for the defense, a guy who exuded a contagious energy while putting pressure on the quarterback.
Now, as the years have gone by and the injuries mount, that's not necessarily the case. He played just six games in each of the 2023 and 204 seasons, and while he suited up for 16 this time, his availability will be a major concern going forward.
The Seahawks should be just fine without him, given that they have young, up-and-coming players like Derick Hall ready to embrace a bigger role, as well as proven veterans like DeMarcus Lawrence. Moreover, they could even re-ignite their interest in trading for Maxx Crosby, who will most likely be moved in the offseason.
Nwosu carries a cap hit of nearly $20 million for next season, which is the third-highest on the entire roster. Conversely, the Seahawks would save $11.48 million against the cap by cutting him, per Over The Cap.
That's worth considering for a player who, despite having 7.0 sacks, 35 total tackles (17 solo), 15 QB hits, and three passes defensed in 16 games (11 starts), might not be able to sustain that level of production at 30 years old and beyond, especially given his injury woes. Nwosu turns 30 in December.
Nwosu's Pro Football Grade (subscription required) of 60.4 ranked 80th among 115 eligible edge defenders. He'll cost the Seahawks way too much, and the production just isn't there. That money could be put to better use, like an extension for Boye Mafe.
If it wasn't for the money, Nwuso would be worthy of being kept on the roster. When healthy, he is a solid contributor and a good fit in Mike Macdonald's scheme. He is also a good leader in the locker room and a fantastic person away from football. He is just too expensive a player.